I-5 Rollover Accident Near Hood Franklin Rd. in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident lawyer. Two vehicles were involved in an accident on Interstate 5 northbound on July 16 in South Sacramento, which resulted in one injury. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), both vehicles were reported as having overturned, and the accident left the road littered with debris. It took over an hour for the road to be cleared for traffic. The collision happened in the middle of the night.
Crash Details
The crash occurred shortly after 2:20 in the morning near the Hood Franklin Road exit ramp between a Chevy Impala and another unnamed vehicle. According to the report, one vehicle came to rest in the center divide, while the other exited the road. One vehicle was reported to have a flat tire, and the Chevy lost its rear wheel in the collision. Cable was required to pull the vehicle that left the roadway back onto the highway for transport. Although an injury was reported, it is unknown whether that person was treated at the scene or transported to a hospital for treatment. The CHP reported that the highway was cleared by 3:47 in the morning.
Ways to Safeguard Against a Rollover
Although some rollovers are caused by a traffic collision, many are single-vehicle accidents. There are certain precautions a motorist can take to avoid a rollover in addition to driving carefully. These include:
- Don’t speed: Speeding is a major cause of collisions in all types of accidents. However, going above the speed limit makes it more likely to be involved in a rollover.
- Don’t rely on safety systems: Although newer vehicles have better safety systems, SUVs and pickups are still prone to rollovers. Don’t disregard this when driving, particularly around curves.
- Use seat belts: Seat belts save lives. Fatalities are caused by a driver or passenger being ejected in about 50 percent of all rollovers.
- Learn about cargo placement: Cargo needs to be spread out, so its weight is distributed equally. The heavier items should be in the center of the cargo area rather than on the periphery or the roof.
- Vehicle tires: Keeping tires in tip-top condition is an important way to avoid rollovers. Tires that are underinflated can lead to a rollover. It is a good idea to check your tires weekly, particularly in hot weather. The combination of a worn tire and the heat can lead to blowouts. Defective tires are also problematic.
Crushed Roof
When a vehicle rolls over and lands upside down, a great deal of pressure is placed on the roof. Manufacturers are obligated to build safe vehicles, and that includes ensuring the roof will not collapse. Not only will this prevent injuries from contact with a crushed roof, but it will also keep the windows and doors from buckling when the roof caves in, preventing passenger ejection. Although manufacturers are federally mandated to build vehicles with adequate roof strength, this is not always the case. According to federal standards, the roof must be able to withstand an impact equivalent to 2.5 times the weight of the vehicle. A seasoned injury lawyer can help by determining how the accident happened and whether or not the roof strength adhered to the guidelines.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident lawyer. When you are harmed by a negligent driver or entity, you need the assistance an experienced lawyer can provide. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or at (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice. You can also contact me online.
I’ve helped numerous people in Sacramento and throughout Northern California receive the compensation they deserve in all types of accidents, wrongful death claims, and catastrophic injuries.
I am a long-time member of the Million Dollar Advocates, a forum composed of high-ranking trial attorneys. Only those lawyers who have won more than $1 million for a client are eligible for membership.
If you are thinking of retaining an attorney, it is vital that you become familiar with his or her practice. Learn about mine by clicking on the following links:
Photograph Credit: http://pixabay.com/en/car-accident-clash-rome-highway-2165211/
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